SpaceX Launches Boeing-Built Spaceplane for US Space Force

On Thursday, December 28 at 8:07 p.m. ET, Falcon Heavy launched the USSF-52 mission to orbit from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo: Space Force

SpaceX launched the Boeing-built X-37B orbital test vehicle on Dec. 28 in a mission for the U.S. Space Force. The Falcon Heavy mission, USSF-52, took off from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Thursday, Dec. 28 at 8:07 p.m. ET.

This is the seventh flight of the X-37B, a reusable spacecraft operated by the Space Force. Boeing said the orbital test vehicle will validate new technologies,” pushing the boundaries of space exploration and utility.” On this flight, the X-37B will test future space domain awareness technology experiments.

“The technological advancements we’re driving on X-37B will benefit the broader space community, especially as we see increased interest in space sustainability,” said Michelle Parker, Space Mission Systems vice president at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “We are pushing innovation and capability that will influence the next generation of spacecraft.”

U.S. Space Force Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, Space Launch Delta 45 commander and Assured Access to Space program executive officer said the USSF-52 launch exemplifies the Space Force’s commitment to ensuring national security and technological superiority.

“The success of the USSF-52 launch is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the National Security Space Launch team,” said Panzenhagen. “This groundbreaking mission underscores the evolution of our space capabilities.”